How Big Do Succulents Get? | A Guide to Succulent Growth

Have you ever bought a succulent and wondered how big it would get?

Succulents are great plants to have in your home. They’re easy to maintain, don’t require lots of water, and comes in a different type of succulent shapes! But more importantly, they can be grown both indoors and outdoors depending on the environment.

If you like plants but don’t want to take care of them a lot, then this post is for you!

We’ll cover everything from how fast succulents will grow, to their size range and give you tips on when to trim or propagate them.

How Big Do Succulents Grow?

Succulents are amazing plants. They look and feel different than other plants. Succulents come in many different sizes. Some are so small that they can fit on the tip of your finger. Others are very tall and can be bigger than you!

Many succulents remain small and only grow tall an inch or two. However, there are a few species of succulents that will get much bigger. Succulent trees like Jade and Elephant Bush can grow upwards of 10 feet in height! 

If you want a plant that is not too big or too small, there are plenty of plants to choose from. Aloe and Haworthia plants can grow up to 3-5 feet tall if they are taken care of well. Zebra Cactus can even get up to 4 feet tall!

No matter what size of space you have, succulents are a great way to spruce it up. Taking care of these plants is simple. Succulents don’t need a lot of work and you can grow properly in different ways. So why not give succulents a try today?

How Big Do Succulents Get Outdoors?

People often want to know how big succulents get when planted outside in the garden. Succulents tend to be perfect for your garden.

They do not need a lot of care and will add a special touch of green to your yard. The size of your succulent plant depends on the specie.

For example, some kinds of succulents like Echeveria can grow up to 6 inches tall and spread out 18 inches wide. You’re growing your succulents outdoors, If you want to cover a big area, try growing some different succulents together. This is called companion planting.

On the other hand, some succulents like Little Bobo are much smaller and grow to about 2-3” tall.

These plants can be used as a colorful ground cover or to add contrast between larger succulents. Even if you don’t have a large yard, you can find space for these tiny wonders!

How Big Do Succulents Get Indoors?

It all depends on the variety of succulent and growing conditions. Most gardeners ask how big can succulents grow? And succulents like cacti can be up to 65 feet high if planted outside.

When you keep your succulents indoors, they usually stay small. They will not get taller than 24 inches. The shape of a succulent can also vary depending on its environment.

When you grow succulents indoors, they usually stay small and round because of the lack of space and light. Outdoor succulents that grow tall and thin because there is more room.

Most indoor succulents won’t grow very big unless they have more space. If you have enough soil for the roots, it can grow up to 6-8 inches wide.

How Big Do Potted Succulents Get?

Potted succulents are one of the most popular houseplants! These little beauties are easy to care for. They require minimal maintenance and can survive in a variety of climates. So how big a succulent grow?

The answer to that question is: it depends! The size of the potted succulent will depend on its species and the pot size. Also, the soil in which it is planted, and how often it’s watered. Lastly, the amount of sunlight it receives.

Generally, smaller succulents like Haworthia or Echeveria max out at around 3-5 inches. Conversely, larger potted succulents such as Agave can grow to over 8 feet!

Do Succulents Grow Bigger in Bigger Pots?

Yes, succulents can grow larger in bigger pots. Succulents generally are resilient plants and they thrive with plenty of room to spread out their roots. A bigger pot will give the plant more room to grow. It has enough soil and space for the roots to spread out.

If a succulent is bound in a small pot. It may become stunted and not reach its full potential. A succulent needs adequate soil to absorb moisture. Thus, provide proper nutrition to the roots so the plant can grow healthy and stronger.

Factors That Affect How Big Succulents Get

Many things can determine how large succulents grow. Where the plant grows is very important, but there are other factors that can affect succulent growth.

Watering Schedule

The frequency of watering is important for the health and growth of succulents. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering will cause them to shrivel up.

Water your plants once every week or two. That is a good rule to follow. Some plants need to be watered more often. It depends on the heating/cooling systems during different times of the year.

When you buy a succulent, make sure to learn how often it needs to be watered. It is important to give it just the right amount of water.

Succulent Name	How Often to Water
Jade Plant	Wait for the soil to dry out completely before watering. Typically once a week or every two weeks
Ball Cactus	Wait for the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry before watering. Typically every 2-3 weeks
Hens and Chicks	Water when the soil is dry to the touch, usually once a week
Christmas Cactus	Water thoroughly when the top inch of the soil is dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely. Typically once a week
Fairy Elephants Feet	Water sparingly, only when the soil has completely dried out. Typically once every 2-3 months
Ice Plant	Allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Typically 1-2 times every month.
Bunny Succulent	Water deeply once a month, making sure soil has dried out completely between waterings
Avonia	Water sparingly and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Typically once every 2-4 weeks
Haworthiopsis Attenuata	Water deeply and then wait for the soil to completely dry out before watering again. Typically every 2-3 weeks

The Size of the Pot

The size of the pot can also be a factor. Succulents that are in too small of a pot will grow more slowly. Plants that are in bigger pots with enough soil and space will grow really well.

When you get a succulent, make sure it has enough space to grow before it gets too crowded. A larger pot is always better than a smaller one.

Succulents in small pots are easier to damage. If you water plants too much, the roots can get sick and die.

Succulents can get too big for their containers. If the roots don’t have enough space, the succulent’s growth will stop.

Temperature

The temperature plays an important role in the growth rate of succulents. They need a range of temperatures to become the fastest-growing succulents. Too hot or too cold can cause them to die or become unhealthy.

Succulents like warm climates with lots of sunshine. They usually grow in the tropics. When it gets colder outside, you may need to bring them indoors. If it gets too cold, the roots can freeze and die.

On hot days, make sure to check on your succulents often. Make sure they are getting enough water and that their leaves aren’t wilting from too much sun.

The bigger a succulent is, the more likely it can survive cold temperatures during the night. Smaller plants may not survive in cold weather, especially if there is no light or heat near them.

In general, temperatures between 60-90F are best for succulents. If it gets too hot or too cold, make sure to bring them inside or give them shade.

Light

Light is essential for succulents to grow bigger and be healthy. Too much light can cause sunburns on their leaves, while too little light can lead to slow growth.

Succulents need sunlight to grow. But, it is important to give them some shade too, especially during the hot summer months.

If your succulent is indoors, make sure to put it near a window where it can get some light. Don’t leave the plant in direct sunlight for too long. Move around and rotate your plants if they are getting too much or too little sun.

Some plants need more light than others, so be sure to research your plants and find out what works best for them.

If your succulent is not getting enough sunlight, you can use lamps to give it more light. Do not put the lights too close to your plant. It could get too hot and damage it.

With the right combination of temperature, light, and water, succulents can thrive and grow.

Soil

Soil is an essential part of growing succulents. You need to make sure the soil drains well and does not get too wet.

The best soil for succulents is a light, fast-draining potting mix. It should contain sand, peat moss, vermiculite, or perlite to help it drain better.

You can add compost or fertilizer to your soil. This will help your plants get extra nutrients and make the soil healthier.

Make sure there is enough space for the roots to grow. Don’t put too much water in the pot. It can make it hard for the plant to stay healthy.

Whenever you are watering your succulents, make sure to let the soil dry out before watering again. Too much water can cause root rot and kill the plant.

Fertilizer

Most succulents do not need extra fertilizer. Their roots can get all the nutrients they need from rainwater. Some plants may need fertilizer, especially if there is not enough water during a drought. Without it, the plant will get sick over time.

Fertilizer helps succulents stay healthy and grow faster. It is important to use the right kind of fertilizer for your plants. Too much or too little fertilizer can be bad for them.

Fertilize your plants once a month during the growing season. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as it can cause root burn and damage to your plants.

Most succulents need a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in their soil. You can buy fertilizers that are specially made for succulents.

A study found that excessive fertilizer in the ground can hurt plants. It can damage their nervous and endocrine systems.

Make sure to read the instructions on the fertilizer before using it. Follow the directions carefully so you don’t give your plants too much fertilizer.

Growth period

Succulents are slow growing and they do not need much care. But, they do have a growth period where they need extra attention.

This period usually occurs during the spring and fall months when the temperature is ideal. During this time, succulents will produce new growth.

You can help your succulents during this growth period by providing them with more light and fertilizing them.

Make sure they are getting enough water as well. Water them when the soil is completely dry.

During the growth period, pay close attention to your plants. Check for signs of pests, diseases, and damage. Make sure to fix any problems with your plants quickly. This will help them stay healthy and grow strong.

Repotting

Repotting your succulents can help them grow bigger and stronger. It is important to repot a plant when it has either too many roots or the pot is too small.

When you move a plant to a new pot, pick one that is big enough for its roots to spread out. Make sure the container has good drainage.

Before you repot, water your plant thoroughly. Then remove the plant from its old pot and gently loosen the roots with your fingers. Put it in the new pot and fill it with fresh soil.

Keep in mind that the bigger the container, the more soil you will need to fill it up. Make sure to water your succulent well after repotting.

List of Succulents Species That Grows Big

Crassula Ovata (Jade Plant)

Crassula Ovata, better known as the Jade Plant, is a succulent native to South Africa. It’s a popular houseplant with lush, glossy green leaves and thick stems. The jade plant is named for its beautiful bright green color.

This unusual shrub grows on the average up to 10 inches tall when it is fully mature. The stem is thick and woody.

The leaves are green and big, some as small as one inch and some as big as four inches across. The jade plant also features small white flowers that bloom in the summer months.

The Jade Plant is easy to care for and requires minimal upkeep. It prefers bright indirect light, so it’s best kept indoors.

Adding a Jade Plant to your home can bring good luck and wealth, so why not give it a try?

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a medicinal plant that is also known as the ‘Wonder Plant’. It has been used for centuries to treat many medical conditions. Aloe Vera is typically a short-stemmed, succulent plant that can reach heights of 2-3 feet.

The leaves are thick, fleshy, and green in color. These products have a gel-like substance inside. It has vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other helpful things.

Euphorbia Trigona (African Milk Tree)

Euphorbia trigona, commonly known as African Milk Tree or Cathedral Cactus. It is a flowering succulent shrub native to Central and Western Africa.

Its distinctive upright stems are light green in color and covered with spines arranged in rows of three, hence the nickname ‘Cathedral Cactus’. The plant produces yellow-green to reddish-green flowers during the summer months.

The African Milk Tree is a popular houseplant because it looks nice. It usually grows up to 9 feet tall.

The Euphorbia trigona can live inside or outside. It needs a lot of light to stay healthy and look good.

Aeonium Arboreum

Aeonium arboreum, also known as the ‘Tree Houseleek’. It is a succulent plant that originates from the Canary Islands. This type of Aeonium can get up to 3-5 feet tall. The leaves look like an umbrella and are green.

It is fairly easy to care for, as it requires minimum attention and care. It thrives best in warm climates that get lots of sunlight, as well as soil with good drainage. Therefore, it is important to choose a potting mix that is light and airy.

Epiphyllum Oxypetalum (Queen of the Night)

Epiphyllum Oxypetalum, also known as the Queen of the Night. This plant is very special and will make any room look amazing and mysterious.

This is a type of cactus that does not need much care. It has big, waxy white flowers that open up in the evening and close during the day. It can thrive in outdoor areas with plenty of indirect sunlight.

The Queen of the Night can reach heights up to four feet tall and wide. But will usually stay between 36-42 inches depending on its environment.

List of Succulents That Don’t Grow Big

Haworthia Attenuata (Zebra Plant)

Haworthia attenuata, commonly known as Zebra Plant. It is a unique succulent native to South Africa. The leaves of this plant look like a zebra! They are thick and waxy, with white stripes.

It’s a slow-growing plant and takes years to reach its mature size. This beautiful houseplant typically grows to a height of 4-8 inches. Its wide, green leaves are covered in white stripes and form a rosette shape.

Echeveria Minima

Echeveria Minima is a species of small, succulent plant belonging to the Crassulaceae family. It has a fleshy stem with smooth leaves that are often tinted in shades of pinkish-red.

The plant has a special flower that can be different colors like pink, orange, and yellow. Echeveria Minima grows to be 5-8 centimeters tall. This makes it perfect for a garden with lots of other succulents or rocks.

Its small size also makes it an ideal choice for container and terrarium gardening.

Lithops

Lithops, otherwise known as “Living Stones,” is a small succulent plant native to Africa. Its unique shape and markings are perfect camouflage in the dry, rocky environment it calls home.

Lithops plants are very tiny. They usually grow to be about 2.5 cm tall. Even though they are small, these plants will still make flowers in late summer and early fall.

Crassula Capitella (Campfire Crassula)

Crassula Capitella, commonly known as Campfire Crassula. It is a succulent species of flowering plant. It has unique and attractive red-tipped leaves that make it a popular choice among gardeners.

The stems of the plant are very delicate and can break easily. But if it has the right conditions, it can grow well. It has a sprawling habit and can reach up to 6 inches in height.

Sedum Rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum Rubrotinctum, commonly known as the Jelly Bean Plant. It is a small succulent species with an amazing array of colors!

This plant is very colorful. Its leaves look like spades and are green and red. It forms star-like clusters that hang down gracefully from the stems. The small waxy flowers are usually pink or yellow, which adds to their beauty.

The Jelly Bean Plant is very easy to take care of. It does not need a lot of work to stay healthy. Although it needs regular watering, it mustn’t be kept too wet or its roots may rot.

These plants grow slowly but steadily and can reach heights of up to 20 cm when fully mature.

How to Refresh Overgrown Succulents?

Succulents are a great way to bring life and color into your home, but they can quickly become overgrown if not taken care of properly. Luckily, refreshing an overgrown succulent is easy! Here’s how:

• Remove all dead leaves and stems from the succulent. Use scissors for larger areas or tweezers for smaller areas.
• Trim the succulent down to a size that you prefer. Try to leave some leaves on each stem so that it can continue to grow and thrive.
• Repot the succulent if the roots are overgrown, to provide more room to grow well.
• Water the succulent just enough to keep it moist, but not soggy. Make sure that the soil has a chance to dry out between waterings.
• Put your succulent in a place where it can get lots of light. Let it stay there for several weeks to grow back to its usual size.

Final Thoughts – How Big Can Succulents Grow?

Succulents are a beautiful addition to any garden or living space. They can get very big if you give them the right environment and take care of them. The size of succulents depends on the specie of the succulent.

When you are thinking about buying succulents, check how big they can get. That way, you will know if they will fit in your yard, home, or garden.

As some succulents may not be suitable for container growing due to their size. If your plants are bigger than you thought they would be, it’s ok. During the wintertime, trim off any extra leaves.

Start with one or two succulents. Take care of them and watch your collection grow over time.